Frame type workstation configurations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing benching systems face issues with stability, complexity, reconfigurability, and tool requirements, leading to wobbly assemblies, high costs, and limited adaptability to changing workspace needs.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable benching system with a simplified core frame structure and minimal components that can be easily assembled and disassembled using few tools, allowing for various workstation configurations, including face-to-face arrangements and flexible use of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a minimal number of component parts is used to simplify assembly, then ease of assembly is improved, but stability and quality look and feel deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The benching system is divided into modular components (leg members, top members, cross members, wire management components) that can be independently assembled. Each component has standardized connection interfaces that simplify assembly while maintaining structural integrity through proper distribution of connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection interfaces and mounting features are pre-configured on components during manufacturing (e.g., pre-drilled holes, pre-attached mounting brackets). This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex field assembly operations while ensuring stable connections between components.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a large number of components and mechanical linkages are used to provide high quality look and feel, then stability is improved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are combined into single components to reduce overall system complexity. For example, leg members serve both as structural supports and as mounting surfaces for wire management components. Cross members provide both structural stability and attachment points for additional accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of attachments. The standardized mounting mechanisms allow the same hardware to secure various different accessories (wire management, storage, lighting) to the same structural element, reducing the number of specialized parts needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of components and mechanical linkages are used to provide accessory support, then adaptability is improved, but ease of assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow users to modify the configuration after assembly. Wire management components can be repositioned along channels, and accessories can be added or removed from standardized mounting points without requiring disassembly of the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized mounting interfaces are provided throughout the structure, allowing a wide variety of accessories to be attached using the same connection mechanism. This universal approach enables high adaptability while keeping the assembly process simple, as users only need to learn one attachment method.
4Manufacturing precision
If specialized tools are required for assembly, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly system is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing through features such as tapered guide pins that automatically align components, cam-locked connectors that secure parts through simple lever action, and friction-fit elements that hold components in place without additional fastening tools. This eliminates the need for specialized tools while maintaining precise assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A table assembly includes a tabletop member having a tabletop worksurface and a downwardly directed lower surface. A leg structure including first and second substantially vertical and spaced apart leg members is coupled to the lower surface for supporting the tabletop member. An elongated horizontal upper member extends between upper ends of the leg members. An elongated horizontal lower member below the tabletop member lower surface extends between and is joined to the leg members intermediate their upper and lower ends to form a gap with the upper member. A removable accessory bracket includes a substantially flat vertical member extending along a first plane and a lip member coupled to an upper end of the vertical member, the lip member extending along a second, substantially parallel plane spaced from the first plane and engaging the lower member to support the accessory bracket adjacent the outer surface of the lower member.